Montgomery County Auditor Karl Keith is offering a new online application option for homeowners who qualify for the Homestead Exemption.

“My office is taking steps to make it easier and more convenient to apply for this popular tax reduction program,” Keith said.

The Homestead Exemption provides property tax relief for senior or disabled homeowners in the form of a credit on their annual real estate tax bill. In Montgomery County, the average savings is more than $600 for those who enroll and qualify.

Beginning this week, homeowners will now be able to apply online through the Auditor’s website by visiting www.mcauditor.org/homestead and using the “Application” link.

“Previously, applicants had to either come to the Auditor’s Office to enroll, download an application form from our website or pick up a form at another location and then mail it to the Auditor’s Office,” Keith said. “With the online application, homeowners can complete the enrollment process at any time of the day, seven days a week from their home or anywhere they have access to a computer with an internet connection.”

The Auditor’s Office will be conducting community outreach days at more than ten different locations around the county to answer questions and assist homeowners who want to apply for this tax reduction. Area churches have also been sent Homestead Exemption information and brochures to distribute and make available to their congregations.

“There are a number of changes to the program and new rules that have gone into effect in 2014,” Keith said. “We want to do what we can to help explain these changes and how the new rules impact those who may be eligible for this benefit.”

According to Keith, homeowners must be at least 65 years old or permanently and totally disabled in order to qualify. Starting this year, new applicants will be subject to an income test. In 2014, only those homeowners whose total household income is $30,500 or less will be eligible.

There are currently more than 47,000 homeowners in Montgomery County receiving the Homestead Exemption. Keith said current recipients will continue to receive this benefit as they have in the past and do not have to re-apply or comply with any income test.

“Anyone who was eligible in 2013 and failed to apply for whatever reason can apply in 2014 as a late applicant and still qualify under the old rules. That means they have until June 2nd to apply and they will not be subject to the new income test,” Keith said, “For some homeowners, this will be their last chance to take advantage of these savings.”

The deadline to apply for the Homestead Exemption for both new applicants and late applicants is Monday, June 2, 2014. If you have any questions or concerns, please call the Auditor’s Homestead Hotline at 225-4341.